5 Factors That Put You at Risk for Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways to narrow. It can affect anyone of any age. However, it is important to note that there are many risk factors that increase a person’s risk of developing asthma. Below is a list of some of the risk factors for asthma:

Genetics

Like many other conditions, asthma has a tendency to run in families. People who have a parent or sibling with this condition are more likely to develop it themselves. Additionally, children whose mothers smoked while they were pregnant are more likely to develop this condition.

Occupational Hazards

People who are exposed to certain irritants and chemicals in the workplace are more likely to develop asthma. This condition is known as occupational asthma. Many of the chemicals that are used in manufacturing, farming and hairdressing can cause asthma.

Other Medical Conditions

Children who have chronic respiratory infections are at a greater risk for developing asthma. Allergies are another risk factor that puts a person at risk for developing asthma. In fact, the vast majority of people who have asthma also suffer from allergies. Additionally, people who have eczema, which is a type of skin condition, are also more likely to develop asthma.

Obesity

Asthma is more common in people who are obese. The number of people being diagnosed with asthma has increased drastically over the past few decades. The obesity rates have also increased drastically over the past several years. Obese people are not only more likely to develop asthma, but they are also more likely to suffer complications. There was a study done in 2010 that showed that obese adults with asthma were five times more likely to be hospitalized than non-obese people with asthma.

Researchers have found that obese people have a tendency to take smaller breaths. This can cause their airways to narrow. It can also irritate the airways. Fortunately, many people notice an improvement in asthma symptoms after they lose weight.

Smoking

Smoking can increase the risk of asthma. People who are exposed to secondhand smoke are also more likely to develop asthma. Additionally, smoking can also trigger asthma attacks.

Smoking can cause swelling of the bronchial tubes. If those tubes swell, then it will be a lot harder for a person to breathe. It is rare for a person to be diagnosed with asthma after the age of 50. However, researchers have found that the majority of people who are diagnosed with asthma after the age of 50 are smokers.